The Minister of Foreign
Affairs, Mr Ioannis Kasoulides, launched today the first Public Consultation at
the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with representatives of the Civil Society,
discussing the issue concerning: “Cyprus’ energy perspectives and cooperation
with neighbouring countries”. The meeting, which took place at the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs, was held in the context of the Government’s initiative to encourage
public participation and engagement in formulating government policy. For this
purpose, the Council of Ministers declared the 4th of December as
the “Day of Public Consultation”.
The meeting was
attended by representatives of Non-Governmental Organizations, experts on
energy and environment, students, academics from private and public
institutions, as well as representatives from Trade Unions and the Chambers of
Industry and Commerce. In his opening remark, Minister Kasoulides, informed the
participants on the geostrategic aspects of the issue, underlining the
potential of hydrocarbons in establishing Cyprus’ strategic role in the region.
The Minister has also highlighted the catalytic role the energy findings can
play in establishing and maintaining peace, stability and cooperation between
the countries of the Eastern Mediterranean.
The participants
had the opportunity to convey their opinions and suggestions, concerning the
above issue. In addition, the representatives of the Civil Society demonstrated
their satisfaction for the Government’s decision to open this dialogue and
stated their readiness to continue the current cooperation in all aspects
within this field.
The Ministry
conveyed its own intention to resume the exchange of ideas with the Civil
Society, acknowledging the imperative role Civil Society can play in assisting
the state to grasp upcoming opportunities and tackle the challenges in the
Eastern Mediterranean.
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